The opening of the state's reservoirs is the gift that keeps on giving for South Australians, with plans unveiled for two projects worth $6.6 million that will transform Myponga Reservoir into a never-seen-before Fleurieu Peninsula eco-tourism hotspot – providing a significant boost to the economy and creating local jobs.
In a huge boost for local tourism, the Marshall Liberal Government's new $10 million Opening the Great Outdoors fund is supporting the construction of up to 12 eco-accommodation cabins on the southern side of the reservoir reserve, and another eight lodges on two separate peninsulas in the northern section.
The new nature-based accommodation is being established by CABN (southern side) and The Lake Lodges (northern side) with support worth $1.5 million.
Premier Steven Marshall said opening Myponga Reservoir for recreational access has reinvigorated nature-based tourism on the Fleurieu Peninsula.
"Opening our reservoirs for recreational access has been an incredibly popular initiative with more than 130,000 people visiting Myponga since it first opened in April 2019, providing an environmental, social and economic boost to the region," Premier Marshall said.
"These two new projects are being made possible thanks to our new $10 million Opening the Great Outdoors fund which is further supporting the nature-based tourism industry and will help create jobs as we continue our strong economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Adelaide has recently been recognised as the world's third most liveable city as well as the second-ever National Park City and it's projects like this which will only enhance this reputation."
Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said the new accommodation projects would allow visitors to Myponga Reservoir to immerse themselves even further in nature.
"With visitors already able to kayak, fish, cycle, hike and picnic at Myponga, accommodation facilities will be an exciting addition which will create an even better opportunity for visitors wanting to enjoy and explore the reservoir and the scenic Fleurieu Peninsula," Minister Speirs said.
"By opening the gates at Myponga Reservoir, we have turned the local township from a drive through town, to a drive to town and with these two projects people will now want to stay even longer at Myponga.
"Opening up our reservoirs has more people connecting with nature as well as providing a boost to regional economies and local businesses, who have reported a significant increase in activity.
"Importantly, as part of the two new projects, both CABN and The Lake Lodges will contribute to a conservation dividend, which will support priority regional conservation programs, including within Myponga Reservoir Reserve.
"These projects are part of the Marshall Liberal Government's record investment to revitalise our parks, improve conservation, boost nature-based tourism and create jobs across the state.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham said the $10 million Opening our Great Outdoors fund will be a significant boost for regional South Australia and is being funded through the Marshall Liberal Government's Regional Growth Fund.
"We know South Australians as well as tourists love experiencing the great outdoors and this new funding from our Regional Growth Fund is all about delivering projects which make this even better and easier," Minister Basham said.
"We want to see nature-based tourism or regional accommodation projects which encourage people to travel to regional areas, stimulate local economies and create jobs.
"These two new projects at Myponga Reservoir Reserve get even more people visiting the popular location and together with the recently created Hindmarsh Valley National Park will further enhance the Fleurieu Peninsula's reputation as an eco-tourism destination."
Both successful proponents worked through an extensive assessment process with the Department for Environment and Water and SA Water, to ensure the eco-tourism experiences proposed within Myponga Reservoir Reserve complement existing water quality and environmental management measures. These discussions will continue through the planning, construction and operation stages.
CABN, which has received $1 million towards its $2,963,816 project at Myponga, currently has six cabins across South Australia, as well as one in the Yarra Valley in Victoria and has recently announced plans for further sites in the Adelaide Hills.
CABN Founder Michael Lamprell said CABN will design and build a range of cabins, tours and experiences that will transform the region for visitors and surrounding businesses. He says the opportunity to become stewards of this exceptional part of the world is truly special and will help to educate people on conservation and its benefits.
"We don't want to operate in the region but rather participate, we are committed to delivering conservation dividends and initiatives that will redefine how people appreciate, respect and contribute to the environment in which they enjoy," Mr Lamprell said.
"We're designing a very specific product that is locally designed and manufactured with a high importance on blending in with the environment with a light touch. They will all be tastefully designed in keeping with the quiet nature setting."
Stage one of the project will create six 'lux' 41 metre square cabins with the capacity to accommodate two guests each, and feature an outdoor deck that will be predominantly off-grid with solar power, water harvesting and an onsite wastewater system. Stage two of the project will include a further six 'family' cabins with a slightly larger footprint of 48m2. The project will be located in the southern section of the reservoir reserve to allow for extensive views of bushland and uninterrupted views of the water.
The Lake Lodges, which has received $500,000 towards their $3,666,661 project, will offer local, interstate and international guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world class nature-based boutique retreat nestled in the forest terrain overlooking Myponga Reservoir.
The Lake Lodges Managing Director Seb Packer said The Lake Lodges will be architecturally designed to provide a diverse range of accommodation options for not only couples wanting a special getaway but also for families and larger groups wanting a unique experience for that special occasion.
"We are excited to bring this new offering to the Fleurieu and hope to create something all South Australians can be proud of," Mr Packer said.
"We see our participation as an integral part of the partnership as we help to protect, nurture and promote the stunning natural environments surrounding the Myponga region."
The Lake Lodges will be built on the two separate peninsulas on the northern banks of Myponga Reservoir Reserve, with eight lodges capable of accommodating up to 32 people within the reserve's northern section.
The eastern peninsula will feature 'The Farm', a group of four twin-roomed lodges centrally connected to a pavilion-style shared living zone that allows flexibility for families, retreats or group bookings of up to 16 people.
On the neighbouring peninsula, located 300 metres to the west, there will be four twin bedroom self-contained lodges called 'The Retreats'.
Myponga Reservoir Reserve is currently open for a range of land and water-based activities such as walking, bike riding, picnicking, kayaking and fishing.
More information about recreational access at South Australia's reservoir reserves – including conditions of entry – can be found at www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au
